What Fire Extinguisher should you choose? If you manage a building or run a business, fire safety supplies are an essential requirement. Fire extinguishers are indeed an integral part of your fire safety prevention plan but you cannot just be purchase any fire extinguisher without first researching what is best suited for you. There is a misconception that all extinguishers work the same. With this in mind, you should know exactly which type is suitable for your building.
With so many types and models available, it can be hard to decide which one is best suited for your needs. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most common fire extinguisher types and identify which ones work best in different types of potential fires.
There are several factors to consider when choosing the best fire extinguisher for you. Below are the most important things to remember:
Type of Fire: Different fire types require different extinguishers. There are three types of fires: Class A, C, and B fires. Class A fires are made from ordinary combustibles such as wood or paper. Class B fires use flammable liquids, like gasoline and oil. Electrical equipment is classified as Class C fires. You should look for an extinguisher rated for the type of fire you might encounter.
Size: It is important to consider the size and power of an extinguisher you are getting. Of course, it is hard to predict what will happen, but you should know the potential risks of your building. A larger fire would require a fire extinguisher that can handle it, so it should be of a bigger size and capacity.
Placement: Think about where you will keep the fire extinguisher. A Class K extinguisher should be kept in a place with a high chance of grease fires, like a kitchen. A Class B extinguisher is a better option if you intend to keep it in your garage or workshop.
Maintenance: It is crucial to maintain your fire extinguisher to make sure it works correctly, should an emergency occur. You should consider how often it might be needed and ensure it is visible and easily accessible in an emergency.
Cost: Last but not least, compare the prices of the fire extinguishers you’re choosing. You don’t want safety equipment to be too expensive for your specific needs. If you do not have a kitchen or potential for grease fires, there is no point in selecting a Class K extinguisher. You should look for an extinguisher of high quality that is within your budget.
You should know the needs and the risks of your business or building best, so you can chose the appropriate fire safety supplies. When choosing a fire extinguisher for your business, the important things to consider are: what type of fire it can handle, how large and powerful it is, where it will be located, what maintenance requirements are as well as the cost of the supply. These factors will help you choose the best fire extinguisher for your building or business in the event of a fire.
If you are unsure which fire extinguisher type is best suited for you, call us at 800-498-FIRE (3473).
